Understanding toddler yeast infections is the first step in managing these infections. Normally when people hear yeast infection they immediately think of vaginal yeast infections. Many skin rashes, like diaper rash, as well as thrush are caused by yeast. Yeast is a normal microbe that is always found on and in our bodies. Under normal circumstances the yeast helps maintain our health by deterring other microbes like viruses and bacteria from colonizing. In turn the yeast is kept under control by multiple check and balance systems. When something happens to offset the body’s microbial balance yeast infections can occurred. The main contributers to yeast infections are antibiotics, heat, and moisture.
Beneficial bacteria that live in and on our body’s help prevent the yeast colonies from getting too large. Antibiotics kill beneficial bacteria as well as harmful bacteria. The reduction of beneficial bacteria takes away one of the bodies checks and balances. After taking antibiotics yeast infections are extremely likely to occur. Thrush a yeast infection of the mouth is very common after taking antibiotics. Antibiotics also increase the number and severity of diaper rashes. Often times the toddler yeast infections will clear up naturally as the colonies of beneficial bacteria rebuild. Sometimes it is necessary to take medication to resolved this type of yeast infection. If your toddler is suffering from thrush or diaper rash after antibiotics contact your pediatrician.
If you have ever baked bread you know yeast thrives in warm wet environments. When yeast have ideal conditions their colonies can grow to large for the body to control. This is why yeast grows in the mouth and moist fold of the body. There is nothing that you can do to reduce the heat or moisture in the mouth and therefore need to treat this type of yeast infection with medication. On body surfaces such as the diaper area, underarms, and bends of the knee you can reduce the incidents of yeast infections. Yeast infections can be reduced in hot weather by making sure the infant is dressed light breathable clothing. This reduces the heat of the area and reduces moisture entrapment. Making sure that diapers stay dry is another way to reduce yeast infections and other rashes in that area. Apply a barrier to the area that will prevent moisture from reaching the skin when the toddler may be in a wet diaper for longer than normal.
Lanolin and petrolatum are good light barriers for wetness. Lanolin is most commonly found marketed as nipple cream for mothers who are breast feeding. Petrolatum is also marketed as petroleum jelly, white petrolatum or soft paraffin and can be found at any pharmacy. Both of these barriers are gentle on the skin. If something stronger is needed to protect the babies skin Zinc Oxide is a good choose. Zinc Oxide is found in most over the counter diaper rash creams. If the toddlers yeast infection still does not go away contact your pediatrician to see if medicated creams may be necessary.
